Coronavirus (COVID-19)

As we start to ease restrictions related to COVID-19, please remember:

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is an acute respiratory infection caused by a coronavirus strain that began spreading in people in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. It is a new respiratory virus and it can cause mild to severe illness in people. The COVID-19 virus is not the same as the other coronaviruses that commonly circulate among people and cause mild illness, like the common cold.

How COVID-19 Spreads

Person-to-person

COVID-19 spreads mainly from person-to-person, through close contact with others and through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. This is similar to how influenza also spreads.

Spread from contact with contaminated surfaces or objects

The virus can also spread when someone touches an object or surfaces with the virus on it, and then touches their mouth, face, or eyes.

Common symptoms of COVID-19 include

Fever (temperature of 37.8°C or greater)

New or worsening cough

Shortness of breath (dyspnea)

Other symptoms of COVID-19 can include

Sore throat

Runny nose or sneezing

Nasal congestion

Hoarse voice

Difficulty swallowing

New olfactory or taste disorder(s)

Nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain

Diagnosis

COVID-19 infections are diagnosed by a health care provider, based on the symptoms, and are confirmed through laboratory tests.

Treatment

There is currently no vaccine to prevent a COVID-19 infection, nor is there a treatment currently for COVID-19. Individuals with COVID-19 should drink plenty of fluids (stay hydrated) and get plenty of rest. To prevent an infection, it is best to avoid exposure to the virus.

Health Services Map

A map has been designed to indicate where area residents can still receive patient care including but not limited to doctor/NP offices, walk-in-clinics, diagnostic imaging (x-rays, etc) and lab blood draw clinics.

Developed by Essex County Medical Society President, Dr. Jennifer Bondy, and colleagues.